
Author 



Title 



Imprint 



l(r~47a72-2 




MAMMOTH 
CAVE. KY 



AN HISTORICAL SKETCH 



CONTAINING A BRIEF DESCRIPTION 

OF SOME OF THE PRINCIPAL PLACES 

OF INTEREST IN THE CAVE, ALSO A 

r^r=r SHORT DESCRIPTION 0F===:^^ 



Colossal Cavern 



JOHN THOMPSON 



COPYRIGHT 1909 BY JOHN THOMPSON 



Maininoth Cave 
K^entucky 




AN HISTORICAL SKETCH 

CONTAINING A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SOME 

OF THE PRINCIPAL PLACES OF INTEREST 

IN THE CAVE. ALSO A SHORT 

DESCRIPTION OF 



Colossal Cavern 

BY 

JOHN THOMPSON 



COPYRIGHT 1909 
BY JOHN THOMPSON 



Courier-Journal Job Print, Louisville 










IViAIVIIV10TH«'0AyE, 
Entrance looi<ii1Q* out. 



LIBRARY of CONGRESS 

Two CoDies Received 

MAY 17 1909 
eiAss A XX& No 

COPY ^. 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KY. 



Wonderful Mammoth Cave ! Wonderful it surely is, grand, 
weird and yet strangely fascinating. The realm of perpetual 
silence and everlasting night. Undoubtedly the greatest natural 
wonder in the western world. Human intellect is imable to real- 
ize or estimate the time required by the Almighty Architect of 
the universe to chisel out this gigantic cavern. The brain reels 
when one tries to fathom some of the mysteries to be seen on 
every hand — pits, domes, hills, valleys, pools and rivers are 
to be found in this strange place, all shrouded in Stygian 
darkness. This, the largest of all caves, is situated in Ed- 
monson county, about ninetv miJes south of Louisville, near 
the main line of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. It is 
claimed that about one hundred and fifty-two miles of avenues 
have been explored ; but the tourist visiting the cave only sees 
those parts that are most easy of access. What is known as the 
"Long Route" is said to be about fourteen miles in length, and 
the "Short Route" is about seven miles in length. The average 
visitor is generally satisfied after traveHng twenty-one miles 
underground; but there are lots of interesting side trips in the 
cave that are well worth going to see. There are a number of 
other caves in this vicinity that are well worthy of a visit, if one 
has the time and inclination to explore them ; but none can com- 
pare with Mammoth Cave in size. Canter's Cave is situated on 
the banks of Green River not far from the Mammoth Cave boat- 
landing. This is a wonderfully interesting cave, showing marvel- 
ous stalactite and stalagmite formations, also beautiful "Colossal 
Cavern," which is described in the latter part of this book. Vol- 
umes could be written about this remarkable cave region of Ken- 
tucky, embracing four or five counties where hundreds of caves 
are situated, but the author of this little book will confine himself 
to giving a brief history and description of Mammoth and Colos- 
sal Caves, avoiding dry scientific terms and details. 



M A M M O T H C A V E 



KENTUCKY 




STEPHEN BISHOP, 
First guide and explorer of the iVIammoth Cave. 
(Copied from an old wood cut.) 



M A M MOTH CAVE . 7v E N T U C K Y 

As mentioned above, about one hundred and fifty-two miles 
of avenues have been explored. In parts of the main avenue, 
especially that portion beyond the "Star Chamber," there is evi- 
dences that the cave was known to the Indians or some pre- 
historic people. Only a few^ years ago hundreds of torches could 
be found if one took the trouble to pick them up, lying between 
the rocks on the floor of the cave. The aboriginies that used them 
prepared the torch from the hollow reeds that are found growing 
plentifully on the banks of Green River. The dry reeds were 
then filled up with fat, and when ignited would no doubt make 
a very satisfactory torch. In the ''Great Salt Cave" some of the 
rocks are worn smooth where people have passed to and fro 
wandering about in this underground world long years before 
the white man ever sat foot on this continent. Who knows but 
that perhaps the red man visited these caves out of curiosity as 
we of the twentieth century are doing? Although it is more 
likely that the caves were used as places of refuge when tribes 
were at war with one another. An occasional flint arrow or 
spear point can even to this day be found by the diligent searcher 
around the entrance of some of the caves. Places also have 
been found where they evidently manufactured the stone points, 
however that was done. Human bones are occasionally un- 
earthed in some of the caves, testifying that many an unfortun- 
ate being has met his death in the early days when the outlaw 
and Indian roamed through this country. The well preserved 
mummified remains of a woman were found in the Great ''Salt" 
Cave about the year 1875 by William Cuttliff, a cave explorer. 
This mummy was afterwards exhibited at Mammoth Cave, Proc- 
tor's Cave and in the "Grand Avenue" Cave. For a time it was 
exhibited in a number of cities throughout the country. None 
of the scientists who viewed it could tell whether the remains 
were those of a modern white woman or an Indian woman. The 
writer found fragments of human bones together with some in- 
teresting pieces of shell and slate, evidently used as ornaments 
or utensils, while exploring Cox's Cave in October, 1905. They 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




NOTED CAVE GUIDES. 
FOUR famous old time guides whose familiar faces 
be recognized by the older generation of cave visitors. 



will 



M A M MOTH C A V E , KENTUCKY 

are now in the possession of Prof. Slierzer, of Ypsilanta State 
College, Ypsilanta, ]\Iich., and that gentleman states, after a 
thorough examination, that the bones are evidently those of an 
ancient stone age man, and of great scientific interest. Human 
remains have also been found in Mammoth Cave. The guides 
point to a niche in the rock forming the sides of Gothic xA.venue, 
which is called the ''Mummy's Seat," where it is claimed that 
early explorers found a human mummy. There is no doubt that 
further exploration will reveal further proof that the caves were 
frequented by the ancient inhabitants of this country. No doubt 
it would be found, if all possible passages were followed out, 
that all the caves are one continuous series of subterranean 
channels. 

To a geologist this section of Kentucky is very interesting. 
He will see how the waters have cut away the rocks, and as ages 
passed by the avenues in the caves were slowly formed. There 
has evidently been a rushing river tearing its way through what 
is now the main avenue, ''Broadway," as the guides call it, in 
Mammoth Cave, and man's puny mind is unable to realize the 
time that nature required to form that grand, lofty cavern. Im- 
mense rocks, detached no doubt from the ceiling overhead are 
scattered around in wild disorder ; and then after the avenues 
have been formed it has required aeons of time for the stalactite 
formations to grow. The pyramids of Egypt are but the work 
of yesterday in comparison. 

Mammoth Cave was first discovered by the white man in the 
year 1809. The story goes that a hunter named Houchins chased 
a wounded bear in the yawning gulf that forms the entrance. 
Whether he explored it to any extent on that occasion will never 
be known; but his story of the immense cavern spread rapidly 
even in that early day. During the war of 1812 large quantities 
of saltpeter was leached from the "peter dirt" contained in the 
floor of the cave and used by the government in the manufacture 
of gunpowder. About the year 181 1 the cave and about two 
hundred acres of land were purchased by a certain Mr. Gatewood, 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

who afterward disposed of it to Gratz and Wilkins. The old 
saltpeter vats, erected by these gentlemen in the cave, are still 
there, the wood showing hardly any traces of decay after ail 
these ninety-seven years. It is said that they made a considerable 
fortune from the sale of saltpeter. Mr. Frank Gorin purchased the 
cave in the year 1837, and opened it up to the traveling public. 
Stephen Bishop and Matt Bransford, negroes, were used as 
guides. In 1839 the cave was purchased by Dr. John Croghan, 
a Louisville physician, and on his death the estate was left to his 
nephews and nieces. After their death it has to be sold and the 
money that it brings equally divided among the descendants 
of the original heirs. 

A two-minutes' walk from the terminus of the M. C. Rail- 
way brings us to the Cave Hotel, a quaint old building that is 
a survival of the "South before the war," and reminds one of the 
old days long gone by never to return. It was originally built 
out of logs, but from time to time improvements have been made 
and the old logs have been weatherboarded over, although at 
the present time a row of old log cabins forming a part of the 
hotel building carries us back in imagination to the early days 
when old Daniel Boone and his hardy followers first braved the 
anger of the hostile red man and built their cabins in the wilder- 
ness. The hotel is situated on the top of a ridge within twenty 
minutes' walk from beautiful Green River, which flows through 
the valley three hundred and fifty feet below. It is surrounded 
with grand old trees, and a view from the broad veranda across 
the lawn is very pretty and restful indeed. Here is a delightful 
spot to rest for a few days — good water in abundance and pure, 
bracing air. If one is fond of fishing, boats can be had at the 
Mammoth Cave landing, and the angler will be wxll rewarded if 
he cares to while away a few hours with rod and line. 

Arriving at the hotel and partaking of a good old country 
dinner, we purchase tickets and don the costumes provided for 
our subterranean journey. Presently our guide makes his ap- 
pearance with lamps, torches, etc., and we start on our trip down 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

tlie gTavel walk, through the old wooden gate, and down 
the ravine. We arrive at the mouth of the cave before we are 
aware of it. Here all is hushed and quiet, the tall, green trees 
cast a soothing shadow over everything. The first sound to 
greet our ears is that of falling water. In a moment more we 
see to our right an immense opening forty feet deep, and feel re- 
freshed by the cool cave air as it forces its way to the upper 
world. The water that we heard a moment ago is seen pouring 
over a ledge of rock directly over the arch that forms the roof 
of the cave. As we are all anxious to start, we proceed down the 
stone steps, halting a moment until the guide lights our lanterns. 
Here we stand ; behind us the world is green and joyful, all 
nature is smiling and the g'lorious sun is shining overhead ; before 
us, what? Impenetrable gloom. One can't keep back an un- 
canny feeling as he moves, half-seeing, half-groping after the 
guide, toward the iron gate, for our eyes are not yet accustomed 
to the gloom. Arriving at the gate, we give up our tickets and 
commence our mysterious journey in earnest. 

Here at the gate the ceiling is so low that it is necessary to 
stoop considerably if you don't want to bump your head. We 
are now started on the "Short Route," and our guide calls our 
attention to the stone carefully piled on either side of our path. 
These rocks were piled here by the saltpeter miners nearly one 
hundred years ago. This narrow passage is called Hutchings' 
Narrows. Presently we realize that we are going down hill, and 
the ceiling is getting higher above our heads at every step. 
The avenue keeps growing wider, until at last we find our- 
selves in the ''Rotunda." Our guide informs us that this im- 
mense chamber is directly under the dining room, of the hotel, 
two hundred feet above our heads. The ceiling of the cave here 
is about forty feet high, and it is about One hundred and fifty 
feet wide from wall to wall in its widest part. Here we see the 
vats used by the early miners. Examining the large wooden 
pipes, we find that although they have laid in the cave for almost 
one hundred years, yet they are wonderfully well preserved, due, 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 










Fully fourteen marriages have taken place in the "Bridal 
Chamber" in Gothic Avenue the most remarkable Avenue 
in Mammoth Cave. 



10 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

no doubt, to the dry, even temperature of the cave. Audubon 
Avenue leads off to the right, and we go up this avenue for about 
half a mile until we arrive at the end of the cave in this direction. 
Here the guide shows us some beautiful stalactite formations, 
known as ''Olive's Bower." We now retrace our steps back to 
the Rotunda and down the main cave. This majestic avenue 
averages about fifty feet in width by forty in height, and is per- 
fectly dry. As we continue on we pass the ''Kentucky Cliffs"' 
on our left, so named because of their resemblance to the cliffs 
on the banks of the Kentucky River in the vicinity of Frankfort. 
Next the "Pigeon Boxes," and in a few minutes we find ourselves 
in the "Methodist Church." At this point there is an enlargement 
in the cave ; up the side wall there is a shelf or gallery, large 
enough for several persons to stand on, and from this rude pulpit, 
situated as it is in the realm of eternal darkness, the Gospel of 
Love and Light has been preached on different occasions. We 
next approach a portion of the cave where "Gothic Avenue" 
branches off from the main cave. At this point, on a rock pro- 
jecting high above our heads, Edwin Booth, the eminent trage- 
dian, on one occasion gave some selections from Shakespeare, to 
the delight of a few friends who were fortunate enough to hear 
him in such an unconventional theatre. Since that time this place 
is known as "Booth's Ampitheatre." 

Leaving the main cave, we ascend a flight of steps directly in 
front of us and find ourselves in "Gothic Avenue." This is one 
of the highest avenues in the cave. The wonderful stalactite 
and stalagmite formations are principally toward the end. 
Here we found piles of rocks dedicated to the different States of 
the Union, and for every patriotic Kentuckian or New Yorker, or 
wherever he may hail from, it is customary to pick up a stone 
and add it to your monument. On our left, in a little niche in 
the wall, our guide showed us the "Mummy's Seat," before men- 
tioned. Here a mummy reposed for some time. Some claim 
that it was originally found there. 



11 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




LOVERS LEAP" GOTHIC AVENUE. 
MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY. 



12 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

We next arrive at the 'Tost Oak" pillar, the first stalagmite 
met with so far in this avenue. Hearing a rumbling sound, our 
guide tells that the little Mammoth Cave Railroad was running 
above our heads, so we began to realize that in this part of the 
cavern we were quite near the surface. Numerous stalactite 
formations are to be seen hanging in thick, heavy masses from 
the ceiling. Here we see a large pillar known as the "Old Arm 
Chair," and the guide informs us that Jenny Lind, the celebrated 
Swedish singer of fifty years ago, used this as a chair to rest 
on while walking through this avenue. Shortly we arrive at the 
''Elephant's Heads" minus the trunks, and further on the "Hor- 
nets' Nests." Next we approach the "Bridal Chamber," and a 
beautiful place it is. Here stalagmites rise from floor to ceiling, 
a group of four forming the "Altar," with "Csesar" and "Pom- 
pey" and the "Pillar of Hercules" standing close by. This is 
one of the most interesting chambers in the cavern. Our guide 
tells us that a number of marriages have taken place in this 
strange room. Next we see the "Lover's Leap." Whether he 
was one of the lovers that was married at the Bridal Altar or not, 
we were unable to discover. 

We have now reached the end of Gothic Avenue, and retrace 
our steps back to the main cave. Taking a farewell glance at the 
"Old Arm Chair," our guide burns some red and blue lights in 
the "Bridal Chamber," giving it the appearance of some en- 
chanted grotto. The "Pillar of Hercules" deserves mention 
here, it being the largest stalagmite in this avenue. After a few 
minutes' brisk walk we arrive back in the main avenue. The 
guide calls our attention to the cart-wheel marks and ox tracks, 
made ninety-six years ago when the miners were employed here. 
We next pass the "Standing Rocks" and then the "Water Clock," 
where if you stand for a moment you will hear water dropping 
somewhere that suggests the ticking of a clock. 

Presently we arrive at the "Giant's Cofiin," perhaps the larg- 
est detached rock in the cave. It measures about forty feet in 
length and strikingly resembles an enormous coffin. Above our 

13 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

heads we see the "Ant Eater," a patch of black oxide of manga- 
nese on the Hmestone ceiHng. There are lots of other figures no- 
ticed as we proceed which bear resemblance to familiar objects. 
The "Giant and Giantess Tossing Their Baby," the "Hen and 
Chickens," and numerous other figures are pointed out by the 
guide. Next we arrive at the "Stone Cottages," built in 1843 
for the accommodation of a number of unfortunate people who 
were afflicted with consumption. It was supposed that the dry, 
even temperature of the cave would be beneficial, but the experi- 
ment proved a failure. Next we approach the "Star Chamber." 
Here the guide bids us be seated on a bench skirting the wall to 
our right, and proceeds to relieve us of our lamps, moving off to 
the opposite side of the chamber. He enters a small passage- 
way, allowing only a very faint light to illuminate the room. Now 
if one looks up, instead of seeing the customary gray or mottled 
limestone roof of the cave, he will behold what appears to be 
myriads of stars flashing and twinkling in the eternal heavens. 
We can easily imagine ourselves sitting in a dismal canon on a 
moonlit night, and if a meteor should suddenly shoot across the 
roof of the cave we would not be at all surprised, everything 
seems so natural. Now the guide announces that heavy black 
clouds will obscure the stars from view, and, sure enough, in a 
few minutes we find ourselves in total darkness, so dark that it 
seems you can feel it. What would we do if anything should 
happen to our guide ! You involuntarily feel in your pocket for 
a match and are pleased to find that you have several. This won- 
derful cave is truly a subterranean world in itself, and we can 
easily imagine it peopled with gnomes and goblins. Deep pits, 
high clififs, mysterious rivers and pools weird and wonderful 
beyond the power of mortal man to describe. This is the king- 
dom of silence and perpetual night, and so it shall remain until 
the end of time. The stars have disappeared and we are sitting 
in silence meditating on the wonders we have seen, when sud- 
denly we hear the sound of a rooster crowing, which is repeated 
several times in rapid succession. We hear dogs barking and 

14 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

fighting; the sound of a couple of cats crying; the lowing of a 
cow and other familiar barnyard sounds. Our guide has proved 
himself to be a capital mimic. As he approaches he announces 
that daylight is breaking. By degrees the light gets up a little 
higher, and a welcome sight it is indeed. At last he returns to 
us, and, after relighting our lamps, we start back towards the 
mouth of the cave, having thoroughly enjoyed the "Star Cham- 
ber," Again we pass the Cottages, and on we go retracing our 
steps until we reach the "Giant's Coffin," and at this point we 
halt. Crossing the cave we descend down a narrow passage-way 
directly behind the coffin. This passage leads down to the third 
level of the cave, where are to be found the wonderful pits and 
domes. The best known are "Gorin's Dome," the "Bottomless 
Pit," "Mammoth Dome," "Napoleon's Dome" and the "Side Sad- 
dle" pit. The "Bottomless Pit" has a bottom, but it is very deep 
nevertheless. The "Bridge of Sighs" spans this pit. Standing 
on the bridge we look up and see "Shelby's Dome," named after 
Governor Shelby of Kentucky. Over this deep pit old Stephen 
Bishop, the first guide, cautiously crept on a slender pole. Until 
then no man had ever dared to cross it. This occurred about 
1840. Shortly afterward the wonderful Echo River was discov- 
ered. The writer will not try to describe this portion of the cave. 
It is something that, to say the least, is simply awe-inspiring. 
These awful pits have wonderfully fluted sides, as smooth as if 
they had been chiseled by a sculptor. Retracing our steps up 
into the main cave, we are once more facing the "Giant's Coffin." 
Here the ceiling is forty feet above our heads, and it is much bet- 
ter walking. After a few minutes we start back toward the en- 
trance. Before proceeding very far our guide informs us that he 
is about to show us the last feature and perhaps the prettiest 
sight on the short route. Bidding us stand for a few minutes 
holding the lamp behind our backs, he leaves us for only a couple 
of minutes, going in the direction of the mouth of the cave. Hear- 
ing a shrill whistle, we look straight ahead of us, and directly 
in front, perhaps sixty yards from where we stand, can be seen 

15 



M A M M O T H CAVE, KENTUCKY 




in 



M A M M O T H CAVE, KENTUCKY 

the figure of a woman, white as alabaster, standing out in bold 
relief against a black background. This is known as the "Martha 
Washington Statue." It has also been called the ''Woman in 
White," and simply the statue ; but whatever name it is known 
by makes little difference — it is a beautiful illusion and leaves 
a lasting impression on everyone who has the pleasure of seeing 
it. Each side of the "Statue" is produced by the opposite walls 
of the cave, which at this part makes several turns. Old William 
Garvin, the noted guide, claimed the honor of discovering this 
curious illusion. According to his story, one of his fellow-guides 
was escorting a party in the cave and had made a brig'ht lignt 
near the old saltpeter vats, close to "Booth's Amphitheatre." 
William was on his way out, not hearing the party approaching 
and thinking himself entirely alone in the cave. Imagine his 
surprise, not to say fright, at seeing a white, ghost-like figure 
suspended in the darkness before him. For a few minutes he was 
so frightened that he stood rooted to the spot, and as he looked, 
strangely fascinated, slowly the figure faded away and dissolved 
itself in the darkness. William said he was thoroughly fright- 
ened, but throughout it all he never lost his nerve. Taking a 
firmer grip on his staff*, he continued on his journey to the en- 
trance and to daylight, resolved that if the ghost did take a no- 
tion to play any i)ranks on him he would signify his disapproval 
by making liberal use of his cane. In a few minutes the sound 
of merry voices greeted his ears, and as he met the good-natured 
explorers he was sensible enough to hide his frightened feelings 
behind a broad smile. He did not mention anything about his 
experience to any of them, but as he kept on walking he glanced 
back to see what progress they were making. Noticing the curve 
in the cave, the thought suddenly flashed across his mind that 
perhaps his ghost, after all, was only an illusion. This idea once 
established in his mind determined him to make another trip and 
satisfy himself. William was a very bright, shrewd guide, and 
far better educated than the average negro was at that time. He 
said that the next trip fully verified his supposition. This oc- 

17 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




THE "TOWER OF BABEL." 

Gigantic stalagmite formations in Hundred Dome Cave. 

Edmonson Co., Kentucky. 



18 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

cur red about the year 1882, but it was not until some years later 
that the "Statue" was exhibited to the public. After viewing 
this pretty illusion for a few minutes, we start on our homeward 
journey. Passing in turn the ''Standing Rocks," the ''Ball 
Room," the "Saltpeter Vats" and finally the "Church," arriving 
again at the "Rotunda," our guide bids us wait a few minutes. 
He once more illuminates this enormous chamber. The sight 
is one long to be remembered. We are standing facing the south. 
To our right Audubon Avenue branches off, while straight in 
front continues the main cave. Here is a temple built by the Al- 
mighty Himself ages before the human race commenced, surpass- 
ing by far anything that could be built by human hands. Stand- 
ing in this chamber I suddenly forgot that I was one of a jovial 
party ; for a time their voices seemed to be hushed, and in imag- 
ination I could see the ancient Indians standing and crouching 
in groups, perhaps holding council of war with some of their 
neighboring tribes. And yet again in my mind's eye I could go 
farther back before the human family had sprung into existence, 
and still here was this great cavern, but how different ! A mighty 
river of water was tearing its way through the avenues, beating 
and lashing the stone wall with a deafening roar. All nature 
seemed to be undergoing some awful convulsion. But I was not 
allowed to speculate long on the origin of this remarkable place, 
for our guide had already started out toward the "Narrows," 
and in a couple of minutes we were peering through the iron 
gate, thoroughly glad to see the sunlight again. It is indeed a 
pleasure, after one has roamed around in the bowels of the earth, 
to again see the smiling sun. The rich, green grass and the lux- 
urious trees never looked so inviting to us as they do now, as we 
ascend the stone steps and arrive again on the surface of mother 
earth. Back again we go to the hotel, where we partake of a 
substantial meal, served in true old Kentucky style. We decided 
to take the "Long Route" the following morning. 



19 



MAMMOTH C A V E 



KENTUCKY 



i^\^^T.^^^^^^i: 










S'sg-^:*£f|s^ 



THE MUMMIES. 

No. 1. Found in the Great Salt Cave about 1875. 
No. 2. Said to liave been found in Mammoth Cave. Copied 
from an old drawing. 



20 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

That afternoon I took my camera and started rambling 
throngh the beautifid park surronnding the hotel and cave, 
thinking that T might be able to "snap" something as a 
sonvenir of my visit, and, snre enongh, I happened on a 
qnaint old grave yard on a hill high up above and overlooking 
Green River, just a short walk from the Cave Hotel. Here is 
where Stephen Bishop's remains He buried, near the cave he knew 
so well. Stephen in his day guided many noted people through 
the cave, and his knowledge of geology was astonishing for one 
who had no means of learning it except by coming in contact 
with cultured people whom he had escorted through the cave. 
It is said that he would talk for hours on scientific subjects, often 
using Greek and Latin words, and was never known to make an 
error. Bayard Taylor was greatly impressed with him. Bishop 
was undoubtedly the first mortal to ever see the Echo River and 
the first to ride on its waters. A neat, white marble slab is erected 
over his grave, the picture of which can be seen in the end of 
this book. "Matt" and "Nick" Bransford also achieved fame as 
guides and explorers. William Garvin was another well-known 
guide. He was first to go through the "Corkscrew." All of the 
old negro guides are dead, with one exception ; his name has not 
yet been mentioned— old Uncle Johnathan Doyle — who in his 
prime was a good guide. He can still be seen occasionally walk- 
ing about at the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. He still re- 
tains the full use of all his faculties. He it was who discovered 
''Proctor's Cave," which is situated midway between Glasgow 
Junction and Mammoth Cave. Back in slave times, when the 
negroes were bought and sold like cattle, the story goes that 
Jonathan had ran away from his master. It was just before the 
civil war and there was considerable unrest among the negroes. 
While wandering in the hills dodging those who might have been 
seeking him, Jonathan found an opening in the rock that looked 
like a good place to hide should occasion recjuire it. Only a few 
days after he was forced to seek shelter and safety in that identical 
crevice. His master had got word that he was in this neighbor- 

21 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




WONDERFUL "STAR CHAMBER. 



22 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

hood, and with a party had started to round him up ; but Jonathan 
happily had heard of their movements in time. Supplying- him- 
self with matches, a g'ood lantern and a large flask of oil, also 
sufficient food to last several days, he resolved that the only way 
to confound his pursuers was to crawl in the hole in the rock. 
Accordingly, when he saw them api)roaching and seeing that 
escape by any other means was impossible, he started in. The 
result was that after considerable crawling, he found that he had 
virtually tumbled into a beautiful cavern, abounding in wonderful 
calcite formations, which afterward became known to the world as 
''Proctor's Cave." Uncle Jonathan eventually went back to his 
master. The civil war soon afterwards, and with it the emanci- 
pation proclamation to the slaves, it was no longer necessary for 
him to hide in caves and swamps. Shortly afterward he found 
honorable employment at the Mammoth Cave, and for many years 
the old ex-slave was a familiar figure to the cave visitors. 

Among the white men who have guided in years gone by 
might be mentioned the following: Charles Dennmidrum, Frank 
Demumdrum, Sant. and Abe. Aleredith, John Lee, J. M. Hunt 
and John Nelson, all of whom were good, trustworthy guides. 

As I said before, we had decided not to start on the ''Long 
Route" until the following morning. Just to while away the 
afternoon, I took a stroll down to the banks of beautiful Green 
River. Here can be seen two places where it is said Echo and 
Styx Rivers empty out from the cave. Here on the banks of 
Green River the scenery is very beautiful. While resting under 
the shade of the large trees that line the banks of the river an 
excursion boat from Evansville, Ind., arrived with a merry party 
of people bent on seeing the cave. I was told that there are an- 
nually about thirteen thousand visitors to see the cave. Quite 
a number come by boat, but the great majority, of course, come 
by rail. Large numbers of students visit the cave every season, 
especially those who attend schools in Cincinnati, Nashville and 
Louisville, and some of the smaller cities and towns in Kentucky 
and Tennessee. 

23 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




Guide William Garvin, discovering the 
'MARTHA WASHINGTON STATUTE.' 



24 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

After a good night's rest at the hotel, and having partaken 
of a good breakfast, we were not long in donning our comical 
cave costumes. This time we had a colored man in our party, 
or rather he proceeded ahead of us, carrying a large basket filled 
with lunches for our noon-day meal in the cave. This trip covers 
over the same ground as on our previous journey, until we get 
to the ''Bottomless Pit." Here we continue on straight ahead 
until we come to what is called "Revellers' Hall." Now we turn 
to the left and proceed cautiously under a dangerous looking rock 
that is called "The Scotchman's Trap." Ages ago this immense 
rock dropped froni the ceiling and almost closed up the avenue. 
However, it luckily fell in such a manner that there is considerable 
opening through which we creep, breathing much easier after 
getting on the other side. Continuing some little distance through 
this remarkable cavern, we presently arrive at the "Fat Man's 
Misery." This curious passage is about one hundred yards long 
and froni fifteen to twenty inches wide. Here it is impossible to 
walk erect, as from floor to ceiling it is only about four feet in 
height. Here is illustrated the beautiful effects of the water's 
action on the soluble limestone. Through this narrow winding 
passage the water has been forced for thousands of years, and 
now on the walls as we squeeze our way through the very waves 
and ripples can be seen in the solid rock. It is impossible for 
two persons to pass each other in this avenue, and especially un- 
pleasant for one person to get through if they should happen to 
be fleshy, hence its name. Our backs are on the point of breaking, 
and it was pleasant news indeed when the guide called out "Great 
Relief." Here we could stand up straight and stretch our necks 
and enjoy a few minutes' rest. The ceiling in this portion of the 
cave has a peculiar formation called the "Odd Fellow^s' Links,'' 
wdiich looks like three large links of a chain stretched across the 
avenue. It is produced by the presence of iron in the limestone 
which forms the ceiling. A little farther on we come to that 
remarkable place called "Bacon Chamber." Here the action of 
the water on the roof has produced some strange figures in the 

25 



MAM MOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




26 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

limestone, some look very much like sides of bacon, hams, etc. 
We are now getting in the vicinity of "River Hall," which is 
situated deep down in the lower level of the cave. This lofty 
chamber is about three hundred feet from the surface, and the 
view here is grand, when it is properly lit up. The dismal waters 
of the "Dead Sea" presently come to our view. This pool, for 
such it is, lies far below us, and it is well named. There are few 
gloomier places than this to be found anywhere. One feels as 
if he were groping through the abode of evil spirits, souls that are 
forever cut off from the light. "River Styx" and "Lake Lethe" 
are the next two points of interest. At the time we made our 
trip the rivers were low, but on some occasions in the fall and 
winter the waters are much higher. We are now rapidly ap- 
proaching the wonderful subterranean stream appropriately called 
"Echo River." Here one can ride for about half a mile on flat- 
bottom boats, and it is an experience never to be forgotten. When 
we get to the river we find three large boats moored along the 
rocky shore. Our guide directs us to step in one of the hoats 
and seat ourselves, an equal number on each side. In a few 
minutes we are silently floating down the river. The charm of 
this river is its marvellous echo, and still it can hardly be called 
an echo in the ordinary sense of the word, for when slowly sing- 
ing "My Old Kentucky Home," "The Old Oaken Bucket," or 
other familiar ballads, a single voice will begin to sound like 
an orchestra. The wonderful turns and curves in the cave around 
us has, no doubt, a subtle effect upon any sound that may be 
produced here, and as the last words of the singer cease, we sit 
enraptured listening to the sweet seraphic sounds dying away in 
the uttermost parts of the cavern. Li these underground waters, 
hundreds of feet from sunlight, are found curious little blind fish 
and crabs or crawfish. They are seldom over three inches in 
length and of a white or light gray color, and quite transparent. 
Upon close inspection the little fish seem to be a species of de- 
generated catfish. There are really no eyes to be seen. They 
have existed in these underground waters for generations, and 

27 



MAMMOTH CAVE, K E N T U C K Y 

by degrees the power of sight has left them until as ages went 
by even the eyes disappeared. We were astonished when 
our guide informed us that these fish are viviparous. At last we 
arrive at the end of the river and disembark. The guide securely 
fastens the boat and we find ourselves in "Cascade Hall." This 
is a rough chamber. We continue on into "Silliman's Avenue," 
named after Prof. Benjamin Silliman. This is an interesting 
avenue, and continues for near a mile and a half. It measures 
on an average of twenty-four feet in width by about thirty feet 
in height. The guide next announces "Wellington's Gallery," 
and shortly afterwards we arrive at the "Dripping Spring." 
Here the thirsty traveler can refresh himself in the cool lime- 
water as it drips from the ceiling. Then we come to the follow- 
ing places in the order given : "The Infernal Regions," w^hich 
is a very rough, slippery and disagreeable place to travel through ; 
it is well named. The "Sea Serpent" above our heads is merely 
a crevice in the roof of the cave. The "Valley Way Side Cut" 
is next announced by the guide. After walking quite a distance, 
we are at the "Hill of Fatigue," and by the time we clamber to 
the top, we all conclude that it is a tiresome trip. Here we come 
to a sharp turn in the cave and see the "Stern of the Great West- 
ern." It looks like the stern of a great boat carved in the solid 
rock. Next "Stephen's Gallery" comes in view, named in honor 
of old Stephen, the first guide. After traveling through a rough 
portion of the cave for some time, we arrive at the "Valley of 
Flowers." Here at one time have been some beautiful gypsum 
formations, but it has been sadly smoked by the thousands of 
thoughtless tourists who have visited the cave in years gone by. 
The guide next calls our attention to "Ole Bull's Concert Hall." 
Many years ago that famous violinist entertained a number of 
friends in this part of Silliman's Avenue, which has been named 
in his honor. Continuing our walk, our guide announces the 
"Pass of El Ghor." For quite one mile and a half the avenue 
receives that name. The "Fly Chamber" looks as if there were 
thousands of flies on the ceiling of the cave. Next "Victoria's 

28 



M A M MOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

Crown," and it is a very good imitation of a stone crown of gi- 
gantic dimensions. "Corinne's Dome" comes next in order, and 
shortly afterwards we are shown the ''Black Hole of Calcutta," 
a pit on the left side of the passage which, in spite of its name, 
is only a few feet deep. It had to be distinguished by some name, 
so that was better than nothing. We shortly arrive at "William's 
Canon," a part of this avenue named after Uncle William Gar- 
vin, the old guide of a past generation. After walking for a few 
minutes we arrive at "Jacob's Ladder," a steep flight of steps 
leading to a higher part of the cave. After resting for a few 
minutes we begin to ascend the ladder, arriving at "Martha's 
Vineyard." This is a pretty place, and some enormous grapes 
hanging on the wall of the cave excite one's admiration. They 
are nothing but stone, but it requires little effort of the imagina- 
tion to picture them as some kind of giant grapes. By this time 
we were all feeling a little tired and decidedly hungry. We had 
not seen our colored lunch-carrier since crossing Echo River, and 
were all wondering what had become of him. At last, after 
walking for about half an hour, we arrived at "Washington 
Hall," and were highly pleased to find a tempting lunch awaiting 
us. Fine steaming cofifee, chicken sandwiches and sweet cakes 
were arranged on the table all ready for us to devour, which we 
did in quick order. The negro that carried our lunches must 
have hurried on ahead of us in spite of the heavy basket he car- 
ried, or perhaps he arrived in this chamber by some short cut. 
There has evidently been thousands of people dine here before 
us, as fragments of broken bottles and scraps of paper and bread 
crusts are to be seen in several places lying behind some of the 
large rocks on the floor of the hall. There were sixteen persons 
in our party at dinner, and some one asked how many states 
were represented, so we discovered that New York State led, 
there being four, Ohio came next with three, two from Wiscon- 
sin, one from California, one from Louisiana, and one from Ken- 
tucky. Our Kentucky friend said it was his first visit to the cave, 
although he had been across the continent half a dozen times. 

29 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




"RUINS OF KARNAK" in Mammoth Dome. 



30 



M A M M O T H CAVE, KENTUCKY' 

Two Canadians, one Englishman and a German gentleman com- 
pleted our party. It seems strange that there are so many Ken- 
tuckians, who have been at every other place of interest in the 
country, and still have neglected to go to their own great wonder. 
There are hundreds living within twenty-five miles of the cave 
who have never been to see it. 

Well, it is time that we resumed our trip, as the cave air is 
(|uite chilly if one remains sitting too long. We soon enter one 
of the most beautiful parts of the whole cavern — "Cleveland's 
Cabinet," the guide announces. Here the formations of gypsum 
are beautiful and glisten in the lamplight. Presently we arrive 
at the "Snowball Chamber." The ceiling of the cave here looks 
exactly as if snowballs had been tossed up there and became 
frozen to the roof. This portion of the cave is full of strange 
formations, which sprout out on the walls and ceihngs glistening 
like gems with every movement of your lamp. "Diamond 
Grotto," also "St. Cecelia's Grotto," are beautiful sights to see. 
A little farther our guide points out a cross in the ceiling produced 
by gypsum roses forming in two crevices which intersect each 
other at right angles. For a long distance on this part of our trip 
we pass through some beautiful gypsum formations, the beauty 
of which it is simply impossible to describe. In some places the 
walls and ceiling dazzle the eyes like a million diamonds, in other 
places the formation looks like flowers of every variety — lilies, 
violets, morning glories, roses, daisies and a hundred other kinds, 
all as white as the driven snow. After viewing these sights, we 
continue on our journey until we arrive at an immense pile of 
stones that thousands of years ago must have fallen from the 
roof of the cave. This the guide called "The Rocky Mountains," 
and one readily agrees that it is a rocky mountain after he has 
climbed to the top of it. Arriving there, we see "Cleopatra's 
Needle," a stalagmite, and high above our heads is an immense 
dome. This is the end of our journey, and after a short rest we 
commenced our return trip, viewing in turn the different sights 
that have already been described. We never get tired looking 

31 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




THE "CORKSCREW.' 



32 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

at the strange scenery, and our trip back toward the mouth of 
the cave was enHvened by several funny stories with which our 
guide seemed to be well supplied. 

I will not describe our return trip, which was indeed very in- 
teresting, and we all enjoyed seeing the different places for a 
second time, as our guide occasionally called out attention to 
them. The novelty of our surroundings and the pure air kept us 
from feeling as tired as we would have felt if we had been walk- 
ing half the distance on the surface. At last we arrive at Echo 
River, and once more ride on its placid waters. Again we enjoy 
listening to the beautiful echoes. There is a weird charm about 
the river that is hard to describe, and as we stepped out of the 
boat I for one was sorry, and would liked to have crossed its 
silent waters again and listened to its magic sounds. Clambering 
up the steep bank, we were soon wending our way through 
''River Hall," and instead of going back in the same path that 
we had came, our guide led us to "Bandit Hall." Here we rested 
for fully ten minutes, as by this time most of us were tired. How- 
ever, we did not realize what an ordeal awaited us. Of all the 
crevices that we encountered throughout our underground jour- 
ney, this part of the cave will take the palm. Our guide requests 
us to prepare to start throug'h the "Corkscrew." He took the 
lead and we -started climbing up after him. In another part of 
this book I have an illustration showing a sectional view of this 
wonderful crevice. The exit of the "Corkscrew" is in the "Ken- 
tucky Cliffs" in the main cave avenue, many feet above our 
heads near the "Rotunda." A trip through the "Corkscrew" is 
something long to be reniembered. After one has been walking 
through the long route for several hours, he or she begins to think 
of a comfortable chair on the veranda of the hotel hundreds of 
feet overhead, where one can stretch out and enjoy a well-earned 
rest; but here's the "Corkscrew," and before such dreams can be 
realized we will have to climb, squeeze and struggle through it 
as best we can. The thousands of people who have gone through 
this passage as the years have gone by have worn the rocks in some 

33 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

places as smooth as polished marble. It is very amusing to watch 
a crowd as they go through the "Corkscrew," especially the fleshy 
individual who has not entirely forgotten the discomfort of his 
journey through the "Fat Man's Misery." At last we all get 
through and find ourselves in the main cave. Here again we see 
the remains of the saltpeter workers ; the timbers used in the old 
vats have been under ground for nearly a century. We are now 
moving rapidly across the immense vestibule directly under the 
hotel, and begin to feel a strong current of air as we get in the 
"Narrows." It was a welcome sight to get a glimpse of day- 
light again. We arrive at the iron gate and stand peering through 
like a crowd of convicts. In the meantime our guide is fumbling 
in his pocket for the key to open the gate. In a few minutes we 
are climbing the stone steps and enjoying the glories of the blue 
sky and sunshine. Coming up the steps one feels the oppressive 
heat of the outer world, and it takes some minutes before one can 
get accustomed to the change in temperature. 

I have so far described in a very brief manner some of the 
principal places in the Short and Long Routes. There are also 
a number of interesting places which are worth visiting if one 
can afford the time. "Mammoth Dome" is the most beautiful 
dome in the whole cave. By consulting the map it will be seen 
that "Mammoth Dome" is near the end of Sparks Avenue, which 
branches out from "Bandit Hall" below the "Corkscrew." This 
beautiful dome is about two hundred feet high. Here the guide 
will burn some colored lights and show "The Egyptian Temple," 
or, as it is also called, "The Ruins of Karnak." The picture in 
this book of those majestic columns will give the reader some 
idea of the beauty of this place; but I might add that no picture 
can do it justice. "Chief City" and the "New Discovery" are 
both well worth describing. Going straight ahead in the main 
cave, beyond the "Star Chamber," we come to "Proctor's Ar- 
cade," a name given to this portion of the main channel. In 
places one can find broken pieces of the old Indian torches scat- 
tered in crevices between the rocks. These primitive torches 

34 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY. 

were used by a bygone race who frequented the cave hundreds 
of years ago. ''Kinney's Arena" is the next name given by the 
guide to this section of the avenue. Presently, after much rough 
walking, we arrive at "Wright's Rotunda." Continuing on, we 
come to the largest chamber in the whole cave, which is "Chief 
City." It is an enlargement of the avenue, and the enormous 
arch of the roof spreads over an area of perhaps three acres. 
"St. Catharine's City" lies beyond us only a short distance from 
where we stand. What has always been called the end of the 
cave in this direction, "Ultimo Thule," is situated not a great 
distance beyond "St. Catharine's City." Near this point in the 
spring of 1908 a large room of enormous dimensions was discov- 
ered. It is a beautiful chamber, and has since been called "Violet 
City." Thousands of stalactites are to be seen hanging from the 
walls and ceiling, ranging in size from a pipe stem to ten inches 
in diameter. The rock formations are white and some of a 
creamy tint. Any person who makes the "Violet City" or "New 
Discovery" trip will be well satisfied. The beautiful calcite for- 
mations are the admiration of all who have seen them. 



35 



M A M M O T H CAVE, KENTUCKY 




ENTRANCE TO COLOSSAL CAVERN. 



36 



COLOSSAL CAVERN 



The Colossal Cavern of Kentucky is a beautiful cave situated 
about a mile and a half from Mammoth Cave. A great many 
tourists after seeing the Mammoth Cave, take advantage 
of the opportunity to visit Colossal. Wagons are provided by 
the enterprising manager, Mr. J. M. Hunt, and both Mr. Hunt 
and Guide Logsdon spare no pains to make one's visit to the 
cavern both comfortable, safe and enjoyable. It has been only 
partly explored as yet, but experienced guides have been at work 
opening passages, building stairways and generally making the 
cavern safe for public inspection. The following is a portion of 
an article on Colossal Cavern published by Appelton's Magazine 
in October, 1904, and used with the permission of the editor, Mr. 
Trumbuh White : 

''The general direction of the cavern is- southeast. The en- 
trance is on a hill side, and is only wide enough to admit one 
person at a time. The uniform temperature of the cavern is 54'^ 
F., and in entering it, during the warm months, the visitor expe- 
riences quite a chill at first, but soon grows accustomed to it. 
Lighting his acetylene lamp — which is preferred on account of 
the fact that it is free from odor and smoke — the visitor upon 
entering makes a descent of one hundred and twelve feet down 
a rugged stairway of stones which leads to wdiat has been named 
the Chinese Room, fifty feet in diameter and with an eight-foot 
ceiling. The names already bestowed upon the different parts 
of the cavern are, it is to be hoped, merely provisional. Some 
will need revision. But the appropriateness of the name, the 
Chinese Room, is at once apparent. The roof is exquisitely dec- 
orated with stalactites of various shapes, many of them resem- 
bling Chinese lanterns, and is supported by great white columns 
and stalagmites. A miniature Chinese wall in the background 
serves as the bank of a tiny lake of clear, pure water. 

''Several hundred feet beyond the Chinese Room a narrow 
passage from the main cavern leads to what is known as 

37 



M A M M O T H CAVE, KENTUCKY 




HENRY CLAY MONUMENT. 



38 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

Vaughan's Dome. This Is an immense nave-like cavity, four 
hundred feet long, thirty feet wide, with a roughly carven roof 
one hundred and ten feet above, and needing but an opening at 
the end to complete the illusion that the visitor is in some vast 
cathedral. The walls are worn into great columns that stand 
regularly along the sides, their tops lost in the darkness of the 
vaulted dome. Nature teaches a lesson in dimensions in this 
underground cathedral, the acoustics being perfect, the slightest 
sound reverberating many times through the nave. 

"The greatest surprise, and the feature of the cave upon which 
its reputation as a wonder undoubtedly rests, is just beyond what 
has been fancifully named the Henry Clay Monument. It is the 
Marvelous Colossal Dome, which has fittingly given the entire 
cavern its name. It is the largest subterranean cavern as yet 
discovered in the world. It is indeed a temple of majestic 
grandeur, whose imposing size loses nothing by being but one of 
the many marvels of this underground wonderland. The dome 
is cone-shaped, eighty feet in length, while the ceiling rises to 
the incredible height of one hundred and seventy-four feet, and 
is entirely lost in the darkness. A lire-basket has been rigged, 
and, when lit and raised on pulleys, it reveals majestic walls 
draped with vari-colored strata hanging like tapestries in grace- 
ful folds, while the dripping water falling from the far-off ceil- 
ing, forms a string of liquid diamonds in the flaring light of 
the aerial torch. But the fascinating part of the cavern is that 
which bears the prosaic title of the New Discovery — no name 
of adequate impressiveness or appropriateness having been found 
to describe its beauties. The New Discovery is an avenue eight 
feet wide and sixteen feet high, extending for a distance of six 
miles — a vast labyrinth of snow incrustations and sculptured 
forms of every description. The alabaster columns have the 
transparency of icicles, the walls are frescoed with clusters of 
grapes, while the ceiling is covered by rosettes of every conceiv- 
able shape, and innumerable pendants of wire-like delicacy hang 
in mid-air. Altogether, this avenue is a maze of kaleidoscopic 

39 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




IN PEARLY POOL. 



40 



M A M M O T H C A V E . K E N T U C K Y 

wonders dazzling to the eye, with all the fascination and bril- 
liancy of a winter morning. 

"There are many natural curiosities among the rocky forma- 
tions of the cavern. A gigantic lizard, three feet in length, com- 
posed of flint and bronzed by the action of the water, slumbers 
peacefully by the side of a pool in a room known as the Saurian 
Dome. A fleecy formation of purest white, whose delicate ten- 
drils of gypsum are so small as to resemble fur, has been called 
the 'Bear Robe.' Ancient and modern tragedies are commem- 
orated by formations known as 'Sampson's Pillar,' the 'Ruins of 
Carthage,' the 'Ruins of Martinique,' and the 'Iroquois Curtain.' 
There is also the inevitable 'Register Hall,' where Tom, Dick 
and Harry and other lesser and greater celebrities will be per- 
mitted to inscribe their names upon the smooth limestone walls 
and provoke posterity by their conspicuous commonplaces. The 
attractive 'Lover's Lane' nearby leads to the Arrow Head and 
Festival Hall, over Phosphate Mountain, seventy feet high — 
an appropriate place for cooling drinks — and right next to the 
Dining Room. Here is a formation which closely resembles the 
Full Dinner Pail of recent political notoriety. After having 
feasted in imagination, the traveler could, if the preceding path- 
ways had permitted, take a spin in his auto or on a bicycle. A 
beautifully smooth, hard, sandy road, called Bicycle Avenue, 
stretches invitingly several hundred feet from the Dining Room 
door. From a nearby clifif-top a miniature Niagara drops into 
a huge crater, disappearing mysteriously among the rocks, and 
ultimately emerging no one knows where. On the left is one 
of the most perfect specimens in existence of a synclinal arch, a 
typical illustration of underground cave formation. And so 
one might recount the almost endless array of curiosities, about 
which the nimble imagination could readily weave innumeraWe 
legends. The largest single room in any known underground 
cave is called the Great Bend. It is sixty feet high, one hundred 
and twenty feet wide, and half a mile long — a banqueting hall fit 
for the gods in adornment and large enough to seat the combined 

41 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 




COLOSSAL DOME. 



42 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 

political conventions of all the parties in the country! The tem- 
perature would be ideal for midsummer gatherings of this char- 
acter, while the tedium of business could be relieved by fascinating 
free trips to the various wonders of the cavern. 

''After having traversed nearly fifteen miles in his inspection 
of this marvelous subterranean region, the visitor returns to the 
world of sunshine and green grass once more, loath to leave the 
land of enchantment, and feeling that half its beauty has not 
been revealed." 

I wish to thank a number of gentlemen for helping me pre- 
pare this little book. I am under an obligation to Mr. C. R. 
Blackall, of Philadelphia, editor of "Young People" and other 
Sunday School publications, who kindly gave me permission to 
use his map of the cave, which was prepared some years ago 
after much painstaking labor on his part. Also Air. Trumbull 
White, editor of Appleton's Magazine, kindly gave me per- 
mission to use a portion of the article on Colossal Cavern. I 
also thank Mr. W. B. Barry, advertising agent of the Louisville 
& Nashville Railroad Company, as well as Mr. J. M. Hunt, agent 
and manager of the Colossal Cavern ; both of these gentlemen 
have assisted me. The pictures of the old guides, as well as a 
lot of information, was furnished to me by a gentlemanly colored 
man living in the vicinity of the cave, and I take this means of 
thanking him for his kindness. The pictures in this book are from 
drawings, a few are taken from photographs and some are copied 
from old prints. The "Corkscrew" is only the artist's conception 
of that interesting crevice, while the scene on Echo River is 
sketched from memory. It depicts the author of this little book, 
with a merry party of tourists, listening to the echoes. 



43 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 



Signatures of Our Party 



44 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 



Signatures of Our Party 



45 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 



Signatures of Our Party 



46 



MAMMOTH CAVE, KENTUCKY 



Signatures of Our Party 



47 



MAY 17 1909 

M A M M O T H C A V E , KENTUCKY 




48 




COPYRIGHT 1899. BY 
C.R.BLACKAUL, 
PI5TANCE IN YARDS, BUURVES. FROM £NTRANCe. 






*k 



ANCE-LICA'S BOwaR ■ • ■ 

BACON CHAMBER 

BOTTOMi-tSS Pir 

CASCAHE HALW 

CHIEF CITY 

CORK SCREW 

CRfl(;HAN'S HAUL 

ECHO RIVEK 

EN^OfPENSACOUAAVE. 

Giants coffin-.. 
r^^ (JOTHic cHAPei..-.. 



■ i810. 
■UHQ. 

■■ 3S0. 
■78S0. 
•4310. 
•1317. 
•87i- 

•88;: 



i;RtftTWeSTeRN 5370. 

LO«£RS LEAP IS-IO. 

MAMMOTH POME. 1870. 

MARTHA'S ViNEWRP 5810. 

OLe BUI.C5 Concert hau 'tno. 

OLNIA POMES J870. 

Rocky mountains 7^io. 

Rotunda JAo. 

STANPINi; ROCKS 647. 

STAR CHAMBER II VO 

WRUHTS ROTOHPA 18 58. 



% 




AIR LINE DISTANCE IN VAI^DS, FROM 
M.C. HOTEL. 

BACON CHAMBER ISO. 

CHI£F CITY 1900. 

CRoqHftN'S HALI. 3000. 

DEAP SEA. Jii'. 

eCH« RIVER 7S0. 

qiANTS COFFIN 600. 

CHEAT WESTERN )5O0. 

MAMMOTH DOMES .-•- liO 

MARTHA'5 WN£YARII. 3C00. 






^^e made by the under«l«nwi during iheNum- 1 T ,^ <*.. 

O^and 1871, Ftor a portTon of the routes ihJ ' ^,'^4. ^f» 



>. CO 



££5 i| 



v^(^^^ 



''*/>: 



STOP AT THE 



Mentz Hotel 



^ 


E. H. MENTZ, Prop. 

Glasgow Junction, Ky. 


^K 


Modern Throughout 

Lighted with Gas 
Hot and Cold Baths 




Mammoth Cave iKiXiKiiK3&> 


i 


^ MAMMOTH GAVE 

CONFECTIONERY 


X 


ff I Choice Bon Bons, Chocolates, Candles, Nuts, Fruit, S 
j ^ { Ice Cream Soda, Fruit Cakes, Crackers, Ice Cream g }. 

1 , t B. F. CONVAY & SONS, Glasgow Junction, Ky. 5 I 



ouvemrs 



JOHN THOMPSON, 

Pyrographic Artist, > 
Glasgow Junction, Ky. 

Gave Books, ^^ 

Leather Dolls, Purses, 

Hand Bags, 

Watch Fobs, 

Burnt Leather, 

Pillow Covers, 

Post Cards and Cave 

Curios. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




